Prevention of Cardioemblic Stroke

pp 385-387

Abstract

There are compelling data to support the use ofchronic oral anticoagulant therapy in persons with high-risk cardiac lesions, including most persons who have had ischemic neurologic symptoms.While the treatment is very effective in prevention of embolic stroke, it can be complicated by an increased risk of intracranial bleeding, particularly among elderly persons. Although aspirin appears to be less effective in preventing cardioembolic stroke, it is an alternative treatment when the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated. Aspirin can be added if ischemic symptoms develop despite treatment with oral anticoagulants.